A young male puppy presented to VMC's Emergency Service in August 2011 with a history of lethargy, anorexia, fever and seizures. Due to the severity of the puppy's symptoms, the patient was euthanized. Testing was returned with a definitive diagnosis of Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE).

To my knowledge, there has not yet been a case report of EEE in a dog in New York State. This dog lived in a kennel in Oswego County, the same county where a young child recently died from EEE. Eastern Equine Encephalitis is fatal in dogs. Young dogs (less than six months of age) and those that live predominantly outdoors seem to be more at risk. Although documented in horses and dogs, it is currently unknown whether EEE can infect other types of domestic pets.

Eastern Equine Encephalitis is spread by mosquitos. Pet owners should take appropriate precautions in limiting pet exposure to mosquitos. Avoid areas of standing water, and keep pets indoors during times of high mosquito activity. Mosquito repellants can be toxic to pets. Please consult your family veterinarian before applying any type of repellant.

We want to thank you for everything you did in providing care to our cat, Carly, during her recent illness. All of you made us feel welcome and comfortable at all times. And it was a pleasure, as well as a privilege, to witness the love and concern you feel for your patients. Most of all, we thank you for your dedicated service to our community of pets and the people who love them."